The City of St. Helena has proclaimed “Italian Heritage Month” in October for the first time. According to Chairman Anthony Micheli, local Italians, Sicilians and Swiss Italians (from the Swiss Canton Ticino) were important to the modern Napa Valley Wine Industry. The Nichelinis, Salminas, and other Italians and Swiss Italians continued to grow grapes and make wine during the Prohibition era 1920-33. Homemade wine produced by these immigrants helped save the knowledge needed to continue the industry.

Join the Sons & Daughters of Italy in America for the inaugural event on Oct. 5 in Lyman Park, downtown St. Helena from 10 to 4 p.m. “Festa Italiana” will feature wine, food, games and music. Your donations make this event possible. Children are welcome, and Nimbus Arts will lead an arts and crafts project from noon to 2 p.m.